Our Best Floating Deck Ideas, Creative Designs, and Tips
Most homeowners imagine their new deck attached to their home where it is easy to access from their backdoor. However, this doesn’t work with every landscape. For example, maybe you want a deck, but the entire back side of your home is already used for an enclosed porch. Or, maybe your lot has a strange shape, giving you limited space for an attached porch. Check out our floating deck ideas, designs, and tips instead. For many families, a floating deck is the best options.
What is a Floating Deck?
The name “floating deck” might imply that we build it on water, but this isn’t actually the case. Don’t worry; floating decks are very stable. We also call them “freestanding decks,” because while they don’t float on water, they do float in space. In other words, these decks are not attached to the home.
A floating deck is typically very low to the ground. If it is low enough, you won’t need a building permit. You also won’t need handrails if your floating deck is low, giving you more creative freedom for the design. In some cases, this means that a floating deck is less expensive.
However, with floating decks you will need to do some extra maintenance in terms of weed control. These decks can be more susceptible to damage during major storms and flooding if built improperly. They can also develop problems if the ground isn’t properly graded and it settles under the weight. That’s why it’s always important to work with a pro instead of making this a DIY project.
Floating Deck Ideas Homeowners Love
Here at Structurally Speaking, we specialize in custom deck design. We love to incorporate your ideas into the design, but if you aren’t sure what you want, we can help. Here are some fun freestanding deck design ideas. We can add one or two to your design or incorporate them all!
- Privacy walls – these are especially beneficial if you are building a deck with a hot tub or small pool. A privacy wall can also provide a bit of shade if oriented correctly.
- Sunken fire pits – it usually makes sense to locate a fire pit away from your home. We can create a small deck that steps down into a gorgeous (and safe) deck fire pit.
- Pergolas – with a pergola, you can add a layer of protection from the sun without completely blocking your view.
- Play area – you can easily add to your deck a playhouse, built-in sandbox, and storage for outdoor toys.
- Hammock – you’ll love using your floating deck even more if you add hooks for a hammock to relax in the sun or even sleep outside under the stars during the summer.
When we meet with you for an initial consultation, we’ll talk about how you can get the most use out of your new deck. These floating deck ideas are just a start! Our goal is to build a deck that is not only beautiful, but also extremely functional. Many homeowners waste their money building a deck they don’t often use. We don’t want this to happen to you! While all properly-built, professional decks will add value to your home, you get the most value when you love your deck and use it regularly.
Placement for Your Floating Deck
One of the most common questions we hear about floating decks is, “Where should I put it?” You might have the perfect, obvious spot for your new deck, but many homeowners aren’t sure where would be best. Here are some things to think about. We’ll help you make the final decision.
First, keep in mind that you can put a floating deck relatively close to your house. It doesn’t need to be at the other end of your property. Some city/county building codes do require certain specifications for decks, floating or otherwise. Here at Structurally Speaking, we have experience working throughout the Raleigh area and know how to build a deck properly.
Something else you’ll want to consider is the location of trees in your yard and how this may affect the sun/shade for your deck. We’ll also want to ensure that your deck doesn’t make lawn maintenance harder for you. For example, if you use a riding mower, we’ll want to make sure you have clearance to maneuver around your deck.
Another thing to consider is the functionality of your deck. In some cases, you’ll want a deck that is closer to your home or you may decide that a traditional attached deck would work better. In other cases, it will make sense to build a freestanding deck farther away with a beautiful landscaped path or even a raised walkway leading to it.
Floating Deck FAQs
We’d love to answer any questions you have about building a floating deck. During the consultation and design process, we’ll work together with you to create the perfect deck for your home. Then, during construction, we are on site every day with our crew and would be happy to answer your questions as they arise. Here are a few FAQs we commonly hear from our homeowners:
How long does it take to build a floating deck?
When we meet with you, we can discuss your project timeline. Things like weather and material delays can affect how long it takes to build your deck. However, we are always upfront with our homeowners about what to expect.
Does a floating deck sit directly on the ground?
Typically, a floating deck will sit on a bed of gravel, but it depends on the specifics of your deck. When we discuss your floating deck ideas, we can talk to you about how we build the different designs and what makes sense for your yard.
Do I have enough room for a floating deck?
Most homeowners do! Decks do not have to be huge to be functional and beautiful. Sometimes simple decks are best.
We hope to work with you to bring your deck ideas to life. Click here to contact us for a free no-strings-attached initial consultation.